The Pleasure Dome never fails to grab my attention each time the band releases new music. With previously well received releases such as their “Chaos Chaos Revolution EP” (2022) and first studio album “Equinox” (2023) featuring the band’s fiery, unmistakable sound which is enhanced by frontman Bobby Spender’s vocals, it was good to see new music on the horizon with singles from their upcoming EP “Liminal Space” being released. The first single from the EP is a story of reflection in the form of “The Duke Part II (Friends & Enemies) The track has a clean rock sound highlighted by the sample of a bustling pub in the background – a clear nod towards The Old Duke bar in Bristol. It’s as if the four walls of The Duke provide a space to ponder and reflect on life’s events, trials and questions – many of us have that one place that becomes a familiar retreat. In a slight change of tone, the EP’s second single “Your Fucking Smile” brings us back to the more heavier sound that we are used to from The Pleasure Dome. The track also has a clean version “Your Perfect Smile” (presumably for airplay) One thing that strikes about “Liminal Space” is how it is undeniably autobiographical, there is no doubt every ounce of raw emotion has been put into the songs from the lyrics to the screamed featured on its latest single.
There are many moods to feel throughout the audible journey that we are being taken on. Without heavy guitars and driven energy, “Suicide” carries more of a vulnerable, softer acoustic side. Lyrically the song hits with three words: “Don’t leave – stay”. It’s a track that needs no additional instruments as the lyrics, guitar and vocals stand strongly together making it one of the most outstanding songs on there. The EP ends with both the opening intro “The Duke Part I” and Part II joined together in one final track, “Liminal Space” also features the interlude-esque “Sugar” four songs in. For me the highlight comes in the form of “Shoulder To Cry On”. Opening with a frantic, deep bass line you immediately recognise the edgy and alternative sound that has given the band the attention it so greatly deserves. Despite a change in the line up and many obstacles, The Pleasure Dome still sounds as gritty with a powerful and intense creation in “Liminal Space” that needs to be heard – and heard loud!
The Pleasure Dome “The Duke (Friends & Enemies Part II)” official lyric video can be found at – https://youtu.be/4Hp8RkmL0T4?si=xde_GxZKXzm2B1Dg